In the wake of the Supreme Court's narrow 5-4 decision to legalize same-sex
marriage, there have been a rash of predictions and dire warnings about the
impact this will have on religious freedom.

The majority opinion seeks to appease such fears.

"Finally, it must be emphasized that religions, and those who adhere to
religious doctrines, may continue to advocate with utmost, sincere conviction
that, by divine precepts, same-sex marriage should not be condoned. The First
Amendment ensures that religious organizations and persons are given proper
protection as they seek to teach the principles that are so fulfilling and so
central to their lives and faiths, and to their own deep aspirations to continue
the family structure they have long revered. The same is true of those who oppose
same-sex marriage for other reasons."

However, in his dissent, Chief Justice John Roberts Jr. wrote, "Today's
decision, for example, creates serious questions about religious liberty,"

Also dissenting was Judge Clarence Thomas who opined, " Aside from undermining
the political processes that protect our liberty, the majority's decision threatens
the religious liberty our Nation has long sought to protect."

There have been numerous newspaper articles, facebook posts, blogs and examples
given from other countries that suggest our religious freedom is going to be
restricted. Everything from muzzling the mouths of preachers who dare to condemn
homosexuality, to churches losing their tax-exempt status, to actual fines or
imprisonment are suggested possible consequences.

The truth is no one, not even the legal scholars, can predict with certainly
the potential fallout from this ruling. However, let me suggest that religious
freedom is NOT going to be restricted for true disciples of Christ.

How can I know that?

Because our real "religious freedom"is not based on the United States
Constitution. It is founded in our faith in Christ in obedience to His Word.
Jesus said, "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you
free." (Jn 8:32).

Jesus' words were spoken to the Jewish people who were in Roman bondage. Politically
and socially they were fettered with certain restrictions. Yet, Jesus' focus
was on spiritual freedom. He further elaborated by affirming this divine Truth.

"Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin.
And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever. Therefore
if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed. (John 8:32-36)

For too long too many of us have wrapped the American flag around the Bible.
Some have equated political partisanship with Christian allegiance. We have
intertwined our hymns with patriotic songs. And could it be that we have uttered
"God bless America," thinking it was a divine right instead of the
blessing of our beneficent Father?

Christians are called to "Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which
Christ has made us free." (Gal. 5:1). Freedom from sin's stain. Freedom
from Satan's shackles. Freedom from guilt's shame. Freedom from sin's sentence.

Our freedom comes from a Higher Power and a greater Lawgiver. Our freedom is
spiritual. Personal. And God-ward. It cannot be restricted by Presidential edicts,
Congressional laws or Supreme Court rulings.

Oh, sure we may lose tax advantages, suffer slights, or become the object of
social scorn. We may eventually be imprisoned for our faith, but our liberty
in the Lord cannot be limited, lessened or eradicated.

Our freedom transcends national allegiance, political affiliation or physical
advantages. Our freedom is guaranteed in the blood of our Redeemer and anchored
in His empty tomb.

Whatever the future holds, may our attitude toward the enemies of Truth reflect
the spirit of Christ and may our speech be with grace seasoned with salt.

"For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence
the ignorance of foolish men - as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for
vice, but as bondservants of God. Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear
God. Honor the king." (1 Pet. 2:15-17).